The University of South Dakota Coyotes are Heading West
Rapid City, SD – On Saturday, November 29, the USD men’s basketball team will take on the Air Force Falcons at Summit Arena, a long-awaited Division I matchup years in the making. The game marks the Coyotes’ return to Rapid City for the first time in over a decade and represents just the third NCAA Division I basketball game hosted at Summit Arena since its opening in 2021.
Bringing together two proud programs, one from the Summit League and the other from the Mountain West Conference, this neutral-site contest is more than just a game; it’s a celebration of South Dakota basketball and a strategic move to connect with Coyote alumni, fans, and future students across West River.
“We are excited to showcase USD and our men’s basketball program to all our west river Coyote fans, especially against a MWC opponent like Air Force,” said Jon Schemmel, USD Athletic Director. “Thank you to all of those involved with the Rapid City Sports Commission and The Monument facility for making this happen.”
That connection to community was echoed by USD Head Coach Eric Peterson, who sees this game as a meaningful opportunity for his team. “Our program couldn’t be more excited to play our first game in Rapid in over 10 years,” Peterson said. “The opportunity to play a Mountain West team in a first-class facility within the state of South Dakota was an easy decision for us. The game will help us connect with our alumni and fans in West River and gives our guys a chance to play in a different area of our state that they proudly represent.”
The Monument emphasized the importance of partnerships that bring events like this to life.
Craig Baltzer, Executive Director of The Monument, said: “This is exactly the kind of event Summit Arena was built for, to give our region access to top-tier collegiate competition and create new traditions in western South Dakota. We’re grateful to USD, Air Force, and the Rapid City Sports Commission for the shared vision in making this happen.”
Also instrumental in bringing the game to Rapid City, the Rapid City Sports Commission sees this as another win for the community. “Hosting Division I basketball in Rapid City not only energizes local fans but helps us showcase the quality of our facilities, community support, and passion for sports” said Domico Rodriguez, Executive Director of the Rapid City Sports Commission, “This game is the result of strategic conversations over several years, and we’re proud to see it come together.”
From the Air Force side, excitement is equally high for the opportunity to compete on a new stage.
Joe Scott, Falcons head coach, commented: “We are looking forward to bringing Falcon basketball to Rapid City and take on USD in a quality neutral-site setting. Playing in front of fans in a military-strong community like Rapid City makes this a meaningful trip, and we’re looking forward to a great basketball environment.”
Tickets go on sale Friday, September 5, at 10 a.m. Fans can expect a competitive contest between two programs with history and pride on the line. Air Force leads the all-time series 9–1, including a one-point victory in their most recent meeting on November 26, 2023, in Colorado Springs.
Coming off a 19–14 season in 2024–25, USD finished fifth in the Summit League and was a top three offense in the NCAA, averaging over 85 points per game. Air Force, while rebuilding in a deep Mountain West Conference, saw standout performances from senior guard Ethan Taylor, who led the league in three-pointers and earned All-Conference recognition.
This game continues The Monument’s commitment to bringing elite-level competition to the Black Hills and reflects growing collaboration among The Monument and Rapid City Sports Commission.
